Gifts from the Heart

     Okay, I promise last post related to the holidays. 
     The biggest beef a lot of people have with the Christmas season is the rampant consumerism. Must have toys, advertising that starts just after Halloween, that whole keeping up with the Jones' mentality. I won't deny my family spends at Christmas, of course they do. BUT. Almost as much is spent on food for assorted holiday gatherings. Many of the gifts received are from the kitchen, or, the heart.

     My Mom out did herself this year.

     Last year in response to Ferd's smart assed Christmas list;
The Hope diamond = a blue Glo Pop ring with the Redneck letter of authenticity and curse removal
Peace on earth = A jar of dirt and a question mark( I suggested a jar of dirt with peas on top)
The bones of John Merrick(aka the Elephant Man) = a wolf skull with a letter explaining a little known fact he was indeed a werewolf

     We laughed until there were tears in our eyes. My mom also enlisted the help of the family in creating these unique responses. Fun for all involved.

     This year, my father received a scrap book detailing the history of our farm from its original crown land grant to the present. I got one detailing my life, from the baptismal certificate, through all the grade school photos and report cards to the present. It was awesome, she even included my baby bracelet from the hospital. Then there was Ferd, again. This is one of two photos he received, beautifully framed and mounted.

The associated title was,"Mama Mia, here I go again"

     So what you may ask? Here's the thing. This is the original photo

     She had photoshopped his head onto the other photo. He is terrified of our horses but is always asking for pictures for bragging rights at work. The Abba reference was supplied by my cousin because Ferd has an unusual fondness for the group. Once again, family participation and a good laugh all the way around.

     Although there were other gifts, these were the treasures. No designer labels, no outrageous price tags. Gifts of time and thought, from the heart. You're the best, Mom.